As storm season approaches, ensuring your investment property is well-prepared is important, particularly if you own property on the Gold Coast. Cyclones, or tropical storms as they’re also known, can cause significant damage if preventative measures aren’t taken.
At Astute Realty, we understand the importance of safeguarding your property against the elements. Here are some essential tips for storm season preparation to help protect your investment property.
1. Clear Overhanging Branches
One of the most important steps in storm season preparation is clearing any overhanging branches. These can become dangerous projectiles during high winds, potentially causing damage to roofs, windows, and other parts of your property. At Astute Realty, we can help organise professional tree services to trim these branches safely. Our team of qualified tradespeople is ready to ensure your property is as secure as possible.
2. Clean Your Gutters
Blocked gutters can lead to water damage during heavy rain. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate, preventing water from flowing away from your property. This can cause water to back up and seep into the roof and walls, leading to costly repairs. Regular gutter cleaning is essential, and our team at Astute can assist in organising this maintenance task to ensure your gutters are clear and functioning properly.
3. Check Your Insurance
Before storm season hits, it’s vital to ensure your insurance is up to date. Both building insurance and landlord insurance are necessary to protect your property from storm damage. Verify that your policies cover storm-related incidents, including wind damage, flooding, and other impacts from cyclones. You can find comprehensive landlord insurance options through providers like RentCover, which offers extensive coverage to safeguard your investment property. According to RentCover, their landlord insurance “covers loss of rent, damage by tenants, and legal liability“—a comprehensive safety net for property owners.
4. Emergency Procedures
In the event of a severe storm, knowing the right steps to take can mitigate damage and protect tenants. If your property sustains damage, such as a fallen branch causing a roof leak, tenants should contact the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) immediately. The SES can provide temporary measures, like tarpaulins, to keep the property dry until permanent repairs can be made.
As a property owner, taking proactive steps to prepare for storm season can save you time, money, and stress. At Astute Realty, we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us to discuss our Property Management services and learn how we can assist you in safeguarding your investment property.